By Lenn Thompson, Executive Editor

Hosmer_08dryriesling

The tasting room isn't fancy and sure, I wish more of their wines were closed with natural cork (to see how they cellar) but for my money, Hosmer Winery offers some of the best value vinifera wines in the Finger Lakes. This dry riesling is no exception — in fact, it's one of the best examples.

Hosmer Winery 2008 Dry Riesling ($12), made with grapes grown in the oldest section of their vineyard, planted almost 30 years ago, is very apple-y on the nose with hints of tropical fruit, fresh herbs and lime.

The palate is fruity and forward, showing more apple and some melon fruit character with a squirt of lime and a sprinkling of lemon zest. It's dry (.7%) with nice balance, but not austere or harsh.

The finish isn't super-long, but for $12 you can do far far worse — not just in the Finger Lakes, but the world over. The Finger Lakes needs more quality riesling at this price point.

Producer: Hosmer Winery
AVA:
Cayuga Lake
Price: $12
ABV: 12.5%
RS: .7%
Rating: 85

(Ratings Guide)